At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage strategic partnerships and drive business growth initiatives in the aviation sector.
- Company: Join the Whittle Laboratory at the University of Cambridge, a leader in aerospace innovation.
- Benefits: Fixed-term contract with opportunities for professional development and collaboration.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on net zero transition in aerospace while working with top experts.
- Qualifications: Degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering; experience in research design and team leadership.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
We are looking for an experienced individual to join the Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA) team at the Whittle Laboratory in West Cambridge to take on the role of Strategic Business Development Manager. In this role you will be required to manage strategic partnerships, research development, and business growth initiatives to enhance the AIA's impact and achieve long-term objectives. You will also oversee the management of research grants, collaborating with academic staff and funding bodies to secure external income and support the department's research and fundraising activities.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with software and technical teams to develop holistic systems models and tools that meet stakeholder needs.
- Support business strategy development, stakeholder relationship management and the dissemination of research outputs, ensuring the department remains at the forefront of industry trends and thought leadership.
- Maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to drive business strategy, support change management, and ensure the effective dissemination of research outputs, contributing to the AIA's overall success and strategic direction.
- Manage strategic partnerships, research development and business growth initiatives to enhance the AIA's impact and achieve long-term objectives.
Qualifications and Experience
- Educated to degree/postgraduate level education/level 7 vocational qualification or possess an equivalent level of experience.
- A PhD in Aerospace Engineering or a relevant engineering field would be desirable.
- Specialist knowledge across a broad range of areas relating to the net zero transition, particularly aerospace and mechanical engineering with transport applications.
- Experienced user of Microsoft Office with software skills in Python.
- Previous experience of research design, technical and economic modelling is required with proven team leadership and relationship management skills.
Contract and Application
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance. Internal candidates may apply by applying for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University. To apply, upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. Closing date for applications: Wednesday 13 May 2026.
For questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact the HR Office at the Department of Engineering: hr-office@eng.cam.ac.uk, +44 (0)1223 332615. Please quote reference NM49565 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality and Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Strategic Business Development Manager employer: Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA)
The Whittle Laboratory at the University of Cambridge offers a dynamic and innovative work environment for the Strategic Business Development Manager role, where you will play a pivotal part in shaping the future of aerospace engineering. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, employee growth, and a commitment to equality and inclusion, this position provides unique opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research and strategic partnerships that drive meaningful impact in the net zero transition. Located in West Cambridge, you will benefit from a vibrant academic community and access to world-class resources, making it an exceptional place to advance your career.
Contact Detail:
Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Business Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the aerospace and engineering sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential collaborators and stakeholders. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your previous projects and successes in business development and research management. This will give you an edge when discussing your experience with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their strategic goals, especially in areas like net zero transition and stakeholder management.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Business Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Strategic Business Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing strategic partnerships and research development, as these are key aspects of the job. We want to see how your background aligns with our goals!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the AIA's mission and how your skills can contribute to our success. Be sure to mention any relevant experience in aerospace or mechanical engineering that sets you apart.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since the role requires experience with software like Python, make sure to highlight your technical skills in both your CV and cover letter. We love seeing candidates who can bridge the gap between technical expertise and business strategy!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in aerospace and mechanical engineering, especially around the net zero transition. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed strategic partnerships or led research initiatives. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your achievements.
✨Build Rapport
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Take the time to connect with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current projects or challenges they face. This shows you're interested and can help establish a good relationship right from the start.
✨Be Tech-Savvy
Since the role involves collaboration with software and technical teams, be ready to discuss your experience with tools like Python and Microsoft Office. If you have any relevant projects or models you've worked on, be prepared to share those as well!
